12 Days
Deluxe Balcony
Zagreb
Dubrovnik
HIGHLIGHTS
12-Night Croatia, Bosnia & Montenegro Deluxe Cruise Tour
12-night luxury Balkan Peninsula cruise and land excursion begins in Zagreb, venturing through Croatia, Bosnia and Montenegro, visiting breathtaking coastlines, fascinating medieval towns, picturesque islands and bucket-list highlights like Plitvice Lakes National Park, before culminating in dazzling Dubrovnik.
Take in some of the Mediterranean’s most stunning scenery, including cascading falls and fairytale-like castles
At a Glance
- Marvel at the stunning lakes and waterfalls in Plitvice National Park, often noted as one of the world’s most beautiful national parks
- Discover fascinating ancient sights, from a 4th-century Roman palace to a 12th-century Benedictine Monastery
- Sip Turkish-style coffee in Bosnia, cruise alongside the old city walls of Dubrovnik and take in the charms of enchanting Montenegro
- Discover Croatia’s most impressive highlights while cruising, including the otherworldly Blue Cave, the remote island of Vis and world-renowned Zlanti Rat Beach
- Embark on professionally-guided tours of Zagreb, Split, Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnik, Kotor and Mostar
- Premium four-star hotels and 7 nights of cruising onboard a luxury small ship, taking in the highlights of the Balkan Peninsula
- Half-board cruise, including a captain’s dinner and opportunities to enjoy the local restaurants by night
- Private transfers in high-end, privately chauffeured vehicles throughout the trip
Itinerary - B: Breakfast L: Lunch D: Dinner T: Tasting
ARRIVE IN ZAGREB (D)
Begin this magical adventure in the Croatian capital of Zagreb, which boasts an elegant blend of Austro-Hungarian architecture, reminiscent of Budapest and Vienna. On your guided tour, stroll through lush parks, along the Strossmayer promenade and marvel at some of the city’s most impressive facades and emblematic buildings like the iconic colorful roof of St Mark’s Church and the twin spires of Zagreb Cathedral. Wander through one of the many galleries and museums, and take a walk down Tkalciceva Street, sampling local brews along the way.
PLITVICE LAKES (B)
Travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful national parks with its glistening turquoise lakes, cascading falls, primeval forests and open meadows. Walk across the wooden boardwalks and trails while gazing at the remarkable beauty that surrounds you, then hop aboard an electric boat or train for scenic ride that provides another perspective of this fantastical landscape. Afterward you’ll have the opportunity to sample the area’s gastronomical delights at one of the traditional local eateries with dishes like boar, venison and rabbit frequently on the menu.
SPLIT (B)
Journey toward Split, with a stop for lunch at an authentic local restaurant along the way. Once in the lively seaside city, you’ll be able to stroll the cobbled streets of the Old Town, built around the 4th-century Roman Diocletian’s Palace. The largest and most well-preserved building from the Roman era on the Adriatic coast, it’s jam-packed with history, offering an excellent example of Roman architecture, along with Gothic palaces and Mediterranean-style stone homes. There are lots of unique specialty shops, cafes and restaurants to sample too. Some of it may look familiar if you’re a fan of the “Game of Thrones” television series. The promenade along the waterfront known as the Riva is a must-visit, with its awe-inspiring views across the harbor to the islands. A climb up Marjan hill will bring even more spectacular panoramic vistas.
PRIVATE DAY TRIP TO BOSNIA (B)
Traveling inland across the border to Bosnia & Herzegovina you’ll experience an entirely different world, with the country having been under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. Both the culture and the architecture is decidedly different from the rest of Europe. That’s something you’ll note while visiting the UNESCO-listed village of Počitelj, a medieval and Ottoman-Mediterranean wonder of architecture and nature along the banks of the Neretva River. Visit the pilgrimage site of Medjugorje which has been drawing people from all corners of the globe after the Blessed Virgin Mary was said to have appeared here in 1981. In atmospheric Mostar, enjoy the Turkish-style coffee known as kahva with a one of the traditional pastries, rahat lokum, in the old bazaar. There are lots of fabulous street foods in the busy market called carsija in the heart of the Old Town if you need more fuel for climbing to the top of the minaret on the Koski Mehmed Pasa Mosque which offers gorgeous panoramic views.
SATURDAY SPLIT (D)
Your private transfer will bring you to Split harbor, where your luxury vessel awaits. Check-in anytime from 2 p.m. on, dropping of your luggage to embark on a tour of historic Split, or resting in your comfortable cabin. In the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to meet your captain, the crew and fellow passengers at the meet-and-greet cocktail reception followed by a sumptuous captain’s dinner. Overnight in Split
BOL – HVAR (B, L)
Your cruising adventure begins with a stop on the island of Brac for a refreshing swim in the azure waters that frame what’s often called Croatia’s most beautiful beach, Zlatni Rat. Wander through the nearby village of Bol, clustered around a compact marina with a picturesque seafront promenade. You’ll sail on to the island of Hvar, best known as a summer refuge for the rich and famous as well as for its happening nightlife, fragrant lavender fields, azure waters and nearly endless sunshine. Learn about the island’s lavender products with an entertaining demonstration and take an inspirational tour of its magnificent Old Town. Soak up the dramatic views of the Paklenia Islands from the harbor and town fort, and visit Hvarska pjaca, Dalmatia’s largest square to marvel at the Renaissance cathedral before getting a sample of Hvar’s bustling cafes, bars and restaurants. Overnight in Hvar
HVAR – VIS (B, L, T)
The next stop on this island-hopping journey, conditions permitting, will bring you to one of the world’s most alluring natural wonders, the Blue Cave, located on the east side of Bisevo Island. It’s named after the blue glowing light that fills its interior when the sun is in the right position. While there are many places described as untouched, the island of Vis is known as “the Mediterranean as it once was,” as it was only opened to visitors in recent years, offering an experience that feels as if you’re entering another time. Here you can sample local wines from traditional wineries, take a stroll along the waterfront while enjoy views of the lovely Villae Rusticae and visit the city’s archaeological museum which boasts Croatia’s most extensive collection of Hellenistic artifacts, including sculptures, jewelry and ancient Greek pottery.Overnight in Vis
VIS - KORCULA (B, L)
As we sail, relax in the sunshine while taking in views of the breathtaking secluded bays and caves. A favorite with many travelers to the Adriatic coast, the island of Korcula is on the agenda next. Called a “mini-Dubrovnik” as its Old Town is similar, it may best be known as the place where famous traveler Marco Polo was birthed. Follow your expert guide through Old Town with its stone houses, vibrant orange roofs and walls that stem from the latter half of the 13th century. Look forward to feeding your appetite with a gourmet Dalmatian dinner in one of the many outstanding local restaurants or choose the optional excursion that includes the chance to learn about Croatia’s history and traditional way of life, and an authentic Dalmatian meal. Overnight in Korcula
KORČULA - MLJET NATIONAL PARK (B,L)
Discover the greenest island in Croatia – nearly three-quarters of the island of Mljet is covered by forest, with the remainder made up of charming villages, fields and lovely vineyards. We’ll take a stroll to its famous saltwater lakes which serve as popular swimming spots for locals and visitors alike, located in the heart of Mljet National Park which covers the entire north-west part of the island. Hop on a smaller boat to St. Mary Island in the middle of Great Lake, home to a 12th-century monastery. If you want to get out and explore, scooters, bicycles and kayaks are available for rent. Overnight in Mljet National Park
MLJET NATIONAL PARK - SLANO/ STON (B, L, T)
We’ll venture to the captivating village of Slano on the mainland next. It serves as the entrance point to Ston, famous for its well-preserved town walls, salt works and oysters. The impressive walls are much longer than its more well-known neighbor Dubrovnik at over three miles in length, making them the longest defensive structure in all of Europe. Explore the medieval ramparts before taking a short walk along the coast to an oyster farm for sampling and learning more about this mouthwatering delicacy. Overnight in Slano/ Ston
DUBROVNIK (B,L,D)
An early morning departure sees us setting sail to the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Before we dock at Gruz harbour, we’ll cruise along the old Dubrovnik city walls for spectacular perspective of this ancient city. Afterward, a guided walking tour will bring you to many of the city’s treasures within the 800-year-old walls including the Rector’s Palace, with its beguiling mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. A ride on the cable car to the top of Mount Srd is really a must, with your reward some of the most jaw-dropping views of Dubrovnik, the Adriatic Sea and the Elaphiti Islands. In the evening, dine with the captain, enjoying a lavish farewell dinner and live music. Overnight in Dubrovnik
DUBROVNIK - TOUR OF MONTENEGRO (B)
While the cruise has ended, today you’ll embark on a scenic drive south across the border to Montenegro, an unspoiled gem as a land of fairytale landscapes including a magnificent coastline, cobalt-blue fjords, dramatic mountains, dazzling rivers, lush valleys and ancient palaces. Discover Kotor Bay and the city of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site constructed between the 12th- and 14th-centuries, protected by medieval city walls that extend more than three miles up to the fortress of Saint Ivan. From the quiet seaside town of Perast, join a short, relaxing boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made islet in the bay with a gorgeous church and museum before returning to Dubrovnik. Overnight in Dubrovnik
DUBROVNIK
With this trip-of-a-lifetime come to an end, private transfer will bring you to Dubrovnik Airport.
Your Ship
What's included
- A private tour with an expert, English speaking driver and guide in Zagreb
- Overnight in Zagreb at a 4-star hotel, breakfast included
- Overnight at Plitvice Lakes National Park in a 4-star hotel, breakfast included
- Two nights at a 4-star hotel in Split, breakfast included
- Overnight at a 4- or 5-star hotel in Dubrovnik, breakfast and lunch included
- Private day tour to Bosnia with an experienced English-speaking driver and guide
- Private day tour to Montenegro with an experienced English-speaking driver and guide
- A deluxe, one-way cruise for 7 nights, from Split to Dubrovnik
- Buffet breakfast daily plus 4-course lunches with your choice of drink and one-litre of bottled water
- Tours through Split, Hvar, Korcula and Dubrovnik
- Admission to Dubrovnik cable car and Mljet National Park
- Wine tasting tour on the island of Vis & Oyster farm tour in Ston
- Professional onboard cruise director
- Daily cabin service & luggage handling
2021 Departures from Zagreb
- May 11, 25
- June 8, 22
- July 6, 20
- August 3, 17, 31
- September 8, 14, 28
2022 Departures from Zagreb
- May 3, 17, 31
- June 14, 28
- July 12, 26
- August 9, 23
- September 6, 20
- October 4
